Spirit of Leadership

WHAT IS A TRUE LEADER? Yet David’s success on the battlefield set up a long and intense decade of conflict and exile for him. He and his loyal followers were continually running for their lives as Saul, in his jealousy, sought to kill David. All during this time, David continually respected Saul as king and preserved his life even when he twice had an opportunity to kill him. Eventually, Saul and Jonathan were killed in a battle against the Philistines, and David finally began to reign as king. Under David’s rule, the nation grew and pros pered. The foundation was set for its becoming one of the most respected, feared, and powerful nations in the world. Before his death, David helped prepare materials for the magnificent temple in Jerusalem, which his son, Solomon, constructed. David inspired his people through his devotion, his faith, his loyalty, and his bravery. In response, his people loved, respected, and served him. Even today, thousands of years later, millions continue to be inspired by the record of the stories and events of his life, which depict his deep sense of purpose and passion. Abraham Lincoln Abraham Lincoln believed that it was essential for the future of the United States to keep the country united at a time when the Southern states wanted to secede over the issues of slavery and states’ rights. His purpose was to preserve the Union, and his passion to do so led him to hold on to his vision of a unified country, even when it led to civil war. He, too, had a purpose for which he was willing to die. Lincoln wrote,

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